Harland R. Knox, Jr., 82, or Fairhaven, Massachusetts died from COVID-19 complications on June 21, 2020. The son of Harland and Marion (Spry) Knox of Manchester, he was a 1956 graduate of Story High School. Harlie, as he was known, reveled in growing up in this small town during the 1940’s and '50’s, playing sports at the playground and on school teams. At Story High he excelled on the gridiron (six-man football), on the basketball court, and the baseball diamond.
After graduation, Harlie enrolled at University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he played freshman football. In 1957 he enlisted in the U.S. Army, which included serving two years in Japan. Upon completing his tour of duty, he married Judy Dinsmore of Jackson, NH. and returned to UMass, graduating in 1963.
After working briefly for Pioneer Oldsmobile in Salem, Harlie began a career in the insurance industry, working for Travelers and Northwestern Mutual. After retirement, he was a volunteer for ARC of Bristol County.
Harlie’s life-long love of sports continued as a devoted Red Sox and Patriots fan. He and Judy enjoyed family skiing in Jackson, NH. and later they traveled extensively in the U.S. and Europe. Harlie was always an amateur meteorologist and loved the energy of New England storms in all seasons.
Harlie leaves his wife, Judy Dinsmore Knox of Fairhaven, daughters Deborah Knox of New Bedford, Ann Knox of Colchester, Vt., son Andrew Knox of Fairhaven, daughter-in-law, Grace Knox and granddaughters, Emma and Audrey Knox of Mattapoisett. Son David Knox predeceased him. He also leaves his brother, John Knox of Kemah, Texas, sister, Mary Mackie (Peter) of Lexington, MA., and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service was held in Mattapoisett on July 2, which included a military ceremony.
Donations in Harlie’s memory should go to a charity of your choice.
